Doctors That Treat ADHD in Adults
If you're diagnosed with adult ADHD, you will most likely be referred to an expert in mental health by your physician. Psychologists and psychiatrists are the two major kinds of specialists who treat ADHD. Psychologists can prescribe medications.
Your doctor may speak with coworkers, supervisors and teachers to get a better understanding of your school or work problems. They may also ask you about your family history and conduct psychological tests.
Psychiatrists
Some psychiatrists are experienced in treating adults with ADHD however it is recommended to seek out a specialist. If your local mental health clinics or community centres offer referral services, they may have a list of specialists in your local area. You can also look online or ask friends for recommendations. If you have insurance make sure you know which insurance companies accept your plan.
A Psychiatrist is a physician who is licensed to prescribe medications for a range of mental health conditions such as ADHD. They are trained in differential diagnosis, and are able to determine the root of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment. They also treat comorbid disorders, such as anxiety disorders or depression, bipolar disorders, or aggressive disorders that co-occur along with ADHD.
Psychologists who treat adults with ADHD focus on the psychological aspects of the disorder and work to help patients cope with their symptoms through talks therapy, usually psychodynamic or cognitive behavioral therapy. They might not be able to prescribe medications but they can collaborate with an ADHD Psychiatrist or medical doctor to manage a patient's complete treatment plan. They can guide patients on how to improve their daily functioning. This could include organizing strategies such as healthy habits, eating habits, exercise and sleep/wake schedules, or even organizational techniques.
Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Professional Counselors (LMHC, LPC) are mental health professionals with completed a masters degree and are able to provide various kinds of therapy. LMHCs and LPCs are qualified to conduct initial assessments, and they can refer their clients for a deeper assessment with a psychologist or psychiatrist. These therapists can also provide support sessions or individual therapy to meet specific requirements.
Many people with ADHD encounter difficulties in their relationships, and a psychiatrist can help them develop skills to improve communication and solve conflicts. Some psychiatrists provide marriage or family therapy. Others may work with a coach or a therapist who is specifically trained to work with ADHD patients to ensure their patients receive the best possible behavioral treatment along with their medication.
When seeking a doctor who treats adults with ADHD take into consideration the specific circumstances and goals you're pursuing in your life. Make a list of the symptoms and issues that you wish to address, and then locate an expert with experience in these areas.
Family Physicians
Family doctors are the most popular healthcare providers who treat ADHD in adults. They'll discuss your symptoms and concerns with work, school or relationships. They'll also inquire about your medical history and review any records from childhood such as school reports. They can assist you with managing ADHD by providing tools, accommodations or modifications that allow you to achieve and excel as people with ADHD. Consider these adjustments as a step that allows a smaller person to attain higher goals.
Many doctors believe that ADHD is caused by a deficiency or imbalance of neurotransmitters. chemicals in the brain that signal different organs of the body to function. The doctors may prescribe medications to restore the balance of neurotransmitters. These medications include stimulants such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, and non-stimulants, such as atomoxetine and bupropion. They can be beneficial, but most people with ADHD prefer therapy or lifestyle changes.
Stress can be caused by ADHD symptoms, specifically inattention and impulsivity. They also put people at risk of developing anxiety or depression, and make them more prone to self-medicating through alcohol or drugs which can worsen their ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD are often required to perform more at home and at work to meet expectations, which can lead them to feel shame or guilt. This can lead to strained relationships with family and friends.
There is no cure for ADHD but treatment can help you to achieve success at work and at home. It can also assist you in turning some of your ADHD symptoms into positives for example, being creative or having a strong memory.
Finding a doctor who can understand your symptoms can be a challenge, but you need to find one who can help manage the symptoms. You should also find a support network to get the help you require. The more you know about your symptoms and how to deal with them, the better off you'll be at handling life's challenges. You'll also be more likely to maintain positive relationships with family, colleagues and friends.
Neurologists
Some people suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Others never learn that they have ADHD. This can be due to many reasons. Symptoms may have been overlooked by teachers or parents in childhood or they may not have received the help needed to thrive. The multi-factorial nature of other disorders like depression or sleep disorders can mimic the symptoms of ADHD and make it difficult to distinguish one from the other.
It is important to choose the right healthcare professional who is skilled in diagnosing and treating ADHD in adults. untreated adhd in adults depression can offer thorough ADHD assessments and testing to determine the patient's cognitive function, psychosocial context, medical history, and other factors.
When selecting a neurologist, consult your primary doctor for referrals or check with local associations of neurologists to verify credentials. Also, ensure that your neurologist is board-certified and has experience in treating adult ADHD patients. Choose a neurologist who communicates clearly and gives you details about the treatment options available to you.
A neurology expert can also assess for comorbid disorders that often occur alongside ADHD like sleep disorders and learning disabilities. They can use electroencephalograms (EEG) to determine if a person has normal brain activity or if there is a seizure disorder, or another neurological issue which needs to be treated to increase the effectiveness of their ADHD treatment.
A neuroscientist can also conduct psychotherapy to help people with ADHD manage their issues and build self-confidence. For instance, they can teach strategies for managing time, plan work tasks, and stay organized. They can assist people in learning to handle anger and frustration, as well as improve their relationships. Additionally, they can address negative self-talk that has developed as a result of years of struggling with ADHD.
Psychologists
ADHD can be treated. The most effective treatments are often the combination of medication, training for skills and psychotherapy. It's important to choose the right specialist. Start by speaking with your primary health care provider or family physician, who will help you begin on the right path. Additionally, many have found it beneficial to seek advice from a therapist, counselor or coach.
Find a variety of potential providers when looking for an adult ADHD expert. Ask potential specialists how they approach treatment. Make a list with symptoms and goals you'd like to address during therapy. You can also ask about their education and training, as well as if they have prior experience treating adults suffering from ADHD.
A lot of psychologists have training in the diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. They may use a range of psychotherapy methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy. They can also employ techniques of relaxation and mindfulness to enhance a client's capacity to manage and cope with their symptoms. These strategies are especially helpful for adults who struggle with low self-esteem, negative thinking, and self-criticism.
Psychologists who specialize in adult ADHD are sometimes more attuned to the particular difficulties of adult ADHD than other mental health professionals. In addition, they may be more aware of how ADHD affects relationships as well as work performance.
In some states psychologists can prescribe medication to their patients. However, they typically send patients in need of psychotherapeutic intervention to psychiatrists. Psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD as well as other psychiatric disorders typically associated with adult ADHD. These include bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety.
It is best to find an ADHD specialist in an established medical practice. This will give you the benefit of having a psychiatrist, psychologist or counselor all in one location and can make it easier to exchange information and inform them about their respective care. Some psychiatrists are family-oriented and will see both children and adults within the same household.